The shag haircut—a timeless, versatile style that has made waves since its debut in the 1970s—is back and better than ever. Inspired by rock ‘n’ roll and the era of effortless freedom, this layered look is perfect for adding volume, texture, and movement to your hair. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, the shag is a universal cut that works for every face shape and hair type. To help you find the perfect long shag hairstyle, we’ve gathered inspiration from celebrities who’ve rocked this trend with flair. Plus, we’ve tapped expert hairstylists Chris Jones and Gretchen Friese to share their insights and styling tips.
1. Shoulder-Length with Texture
Alexa Chung’s textured shag haircut is the epitome of effortless chic. Her iconic bangs and undone texture make this style a go-to for both casual outings and formal events. The key to achieving her look lies in embracing natural texture while keeping bangs thick and full.
Styling Tip: Use a texturizing spray to enhance the undone effect and add volume at the roots.
2. Curly Shag
Zendaya’s curly shag proves that this style is a match made in heaven for natural curls. Her voluminous layers and bold bangs create a dynamic, head-turning look. According to Friese, “This style is made for curly hair—straight or wavy hair wouldn’t have the same impact.”
How to Achieve: Apply a curl-defining cream and lightweight gel, then diffuse your hair until it’s about 80% dry before letting it air dry completely.
3. Long and Loose
Jessica Biel’s long shag is the definition of laid-back elegance. With minimal effort, this style exudes movement and texture, making it a favorite for those who prefer a softer, more feminine vibe.
Expert Insight: “The shag goes against the grain, breaks the mold, and brings back a sexier, more feminine look,” says Jones.
4. Face-Framing with Waves
Gisele Bündchen’s beachy waves and sun-kissed highlights showcase how a shag can be both sleek and smooth. Her layers frame her face perfectly, adding dimension and softness.
Pro Tip: For curly hair, use a smoothing product and blow-dry with a round brush, finishing with a large-barrel curling iron for added bounce.
5. Grown-Out Shag
Shay Mitchell’s beachy waves and undone texture highlight the beauty of a grown-out shag. This style accentuates layers and creates a carefree, “fresh-from-the-shore” vibe.
Styling Hack: Use a volumizing gel and casually blow-dry your hair. Finish with an extra-large barrel curling iron for loose waves at the ends.
6. 1970s Style Shag
Drew Barrymore’s retro-inspired shag pays homage to the disco era. Paired with her rose-colored glasses, this look screams effortless cool.
Quick Fix: Add a little mousse, rough dry, and you’re ready to go.
7. Piecey Shag
Frida Gustavsson’s piecey shag with curtain bangs is a masterclass in effortless waves. Her bangs flawlessly frame her face, adding an extra touch of charm.
How to Style: Use a volumizing mousse and medium-sized round brush to create waves, focusing on shaping the ends.
8. Feathered Shag
Selena Gomez’s feathered shag with subtle layers and bangs adds an edgy yet sophisticated twist. Ask your stylist to razor-cut your bangs for a modern finish.
9. Beachy Shag
Ciara’s shag haircut naturally frames her face, proving that layer perfection is achievable with minimal effort.
Easy Styling: Spritz some sea salt spray into your hair for a similar look.
10. Chic Chop
Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s soft fringe and layered cut create a harmonious blend of structure and movement.
Styling Tip: Apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair, blow-dry, and finish with a texturizing spray for an undone finish.
11. Pinup-Inspired Shag
Jennifer Hudson’s retro take on the shag is all about texture and volume.
Pro Advice: Use a lightweight gel and diffuse your hair, or air-dry and loosen the locks with your fingers once dry.
12. Wispy Layers
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Dakota Johnson’s wispy layers and slight wave highlight the versatility of the shag. Her sleek, shiny texture is likely thanks to a high-quality serum.
13. Shag-Fringe Combo
Halle Berry’s youthful shag-fringe combo emphasizes light, airy texture.
Secret Ingredient: A dusting of volumizing powder at the crown adds height and softness.
14. High Volume Shag
Taylor Swift’s voluminous shag is perfect for transitioning from curls to grown-up waves.
Volume Boost: Blow-dry with a round brush at the roots and bangs to amp up the style’s sexy nature.
15. Long Layers
Camila Cabello’s long shag with fringe offers a modern, conservative approach to this classic cut.
Shine Tip: Use shine-boosting products to achieve lustrous locks like hers.
16. Shag Meets Mullet
Miley Cyrus’s shaggy mullet (or “shullet”) combines choppy layers with a modern twist.
Styling Trick: Brush the sides flat and tapered, then add a spritz of texturizing spray for a polished yet edgy finish.
17. Lightly Feathered with Waves
Chloë Grace Moretz’s Farrah Fawcett-inspired shag is all about a high-quality blowout.
Tool Recommendation: Use a smaller-barreled round brush (¾”-1″) to create defined, feathery pieces.
18. Curly with Bangs
Sandra Oh’s curly shag with bangs is a stunning example of how to embrace natural texture.
How to Recreate: Use a wide-barrel wand to create loose waves, then brush them out with your fingers for a lived-in look.
19. Wet-Look Curls
Mica Arganaraz’s curly wet shag is all about product application.
Step-by-Step: Allow hair to dry 70%, coat strands with gel serum, and lightly blow-dry with a diffuser. Finish with shine spray.
20. Natural Shag
Gabrielle Union’s natural shag celebrates curls in their purest form.
Moisture Must-Have: Commit to a weekly deep conditioning mask to keep curls hydrated and healthy.
21. Disheveled Bangs
Alison Brie’s shag combines mullet-like layers with 1960s-inspired bangs.
Styling Tip: Use a round brush on the bangs and let the rest of the hair air-dry.
22. Lots of Layers
Jennifer Lopez’s shag teaches us about levels and movement.
Volume Hack: Use a volumizing spray to add lift at the roots and throughout the layers.
23. Air-Dried Texture
Natasha Lyonne’s red wavy shag is effortlessly chic.
Product Pick: Use a balm-like product to enhance waves and add volume.
24. Bang-Free Texture
Sandra Bullock’s textured shag features bends throughout and volume at the roots.
Layer Tip: Ask your stylist for choppy ends to add movement to straight hair.
25. Loose Curls
Jessica Williams’s loose curly shag highlights natural texture.
Curl Cream Magic: Work through a curl cream and air-dry for a similar look.
26. Grown-Out Layers
Suki Waterhouse’s modern shag benefits from a curling iron for added texture.
Finishing Touch: Work in a dollop of styling cream for an “I-woke-up-like-this” vibe.
27. Rounded and Curly
Tracee Ellis Ross’s curly shag combines natural curls with fringey bangs.
Key Product: Use a finishing product to maintain well-defined curls, even in humidity.
28. Rounded Bangs
Linda Cardellini’s rounded bangs and loose waves offer a cool, casual 1970s vibe.
Bang Styling: Use a round brush to curve the bangs slightly inward.
29. Undone Shag
Paula Washington’s curly, undone shag is perfect for embracing natural texture.
Hydration Tip: Use a defining cream to keep curls moisturized and defined.
30. Bohemian Layers
Georgia May Jagger’s classic shag is ideal for longer hair types, especially with soft waves.
Day-After Hack: Style on second- or third-day hair for a grungey bedhead effect.
31. Slightly Bent
Jasmine Tookes’s bent shag with an ear tuck adds instant sophistication.
Layer Technique: Keep ends razored for an uneven, edgy look.
32. Wavy with Soft Fringe
Rihanna’s wavy shag with bangs offers the best of both worlds—volume on the ends and texture on the bangs.
Blend Tip: Ideal for growing out fringe or rocking curtain bangs.
33. Choppy Bangs
Kerry Washington’s piecey shag pairs straight bangs with loose waves.
Product Pick: Use a humidity-resistant gel to keep hair soft and defined.
34. All Natural
Logan Browning’s natural shag celebrates curls with a center part.
Hydration Secret: Reapply leave-in conditioner throughout the day to keep curls hydrated.
35. Bangs and Waves
Florence Welch’s wavy shag haircut, paired with a stylish hat, is the perfect example of how accessories can elevate your hairstyle. By wearing the hat farther back on her head, Florence ensures her bangs remain the focal point. The eyebrow-grazing, full bangs beautifully complement the textured ends of her shag, creating a harmonious balance between structure and softness.
Styling Tip: To achieve this look, use a curling wand to create loose waves, then finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the texture without weighing it down. Pair with a wide-brimmed hat for an effortlessly chic vibe.
36. Side-Parted Shag
Michelle Pfeiffer’s side-parted shag is a sophisticated take on this timeless cut. The asymmetry of the style—where one side appears fuller than the other—adds a touch of drama and elegance. To recreate this voluminous look, tease the roots and blow-dry your hair upside down for maximum lift.
Pro Tip: For added volume, apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair before blow-drying. Finish with a shine spray to give your locks a polished, high-gloss finish.
37. Super-Long Waves
Joan Smalls’ long shag haircut with cascading waves proves that beachy vibes can be elevated to red-carpet levels. Her ultra-long extensions add drama and movement, making this style perfect for those who want to experiment with length without the commitment.
Easy Hack: If you’re not ready for permanent extensions, try clip-ins to achieve a similar effect. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose waves, and finish with a texturizing spray for a tousled, lived-in look.
38. Asymmetric Bangs
Rashida Jones’ shag haircut with asymmetric bangs is a playful yet edgy twist on the classic layered look. The haphazard layers in her bangs add character and dimension, while the blunt ends of her hair provide structure and balance. This style is perfect for those who want to highlight their facial features while maintaining an effortlessly cool aesthetic.
How to Style: Ask your stylist to incorporate varying lengths into your bangs for a textured, piece-y effect. Use a lightweight pomade to define the layers and keep the look sleek.
39. Wet Look and Side Part
Normani’s wet-look shag at the Streamy Awards is a masterclass in modern glamour. The deep side part adds sophistication, while the glossy finish gives the style a polished, high-fashion edge.
Product Pick: To achieve the wet look, apply a shine-enhancing gel or serum to damp hair and comb it through for a sleek finish. Lock in the shine with a humidity-resistant spray like Aveda Brilliant Damage Control.
40. Textured Waves
Freida Pinto’s side-flipped shag with textured waves is both romantic and versatile. The layers blend seamlessly, creating a cohesive and voluminous look. Adding a side part and securing one side with a decorative pin elevates the style, making it perfect for formal occasions or evening events.
Styling Hack: Use a medium-barrel curling iron to create soft waves, then flip your hair to one side for added volume. Secure with a statement hairpin for a touch of elegance.
41. Eyebrow-Grazing Fringe
Constance Wu’s feathered bangs and shag haircut prove that even those with super-straight hair can rock this trend. The key lies in layering the bangs and ensuring they blend naturally with the rest of the hair for a casual, effortless appearance.
Expert Advice: “Layered bangs work beautifully on straight hair,” says hairstylist Chris Jones. “They add movement and prevent the fringe from looking too heavy.”
42. Gradual Layers
Kirsten Dunst’s romantic shag haircut features strategically placed layers that frame the face and enhance its natural contours. When curled just right, this style exudes a retro charm that’s perfect for special occasions or evening wear.
Curling Tip: Use a curling wand to create soft, bouncy curls, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold the curls in place.
43. Tousled With Layers
Kate Moss’ tousled shag is the epitome of undone elegance. The secret to achieving this perfectly imperfect look lies in using high-quality styling products that enhance texture and volume.
Product Recommendation: Blow-dry your hair until it’s nearly dry, then spritz Oribe’s Après Beach Wave and Shine Spray for a tousled, beachy finish.
44. Long and Straight
Elizabeth Olsen’s long and straight shag haircut is a lesson in simplicity and sophistication. The gradual layers, starting from the bangs and extending to the ends, create a seamless transition that adds depth and dimension to the style.
Styling Tip: Ask your stylist for long, face-framing layers and bangs that graze the eyes. Use a flat iron to smooth the hair and add shine with a lightweight serum.
45. Wavy With Curtain Bangs
Gemma Chan’s wavy shag with curtain bangs is a low-maintenance yet stylish option for those hesitant to commit to traditional bangs. The long, center-parted bangs blend effortlessly with her wavy layers, creating a soft and feminine look.
Why It Works: Curtain bangs are universally flattering and grow out gracefully, making them a versatile choice for any face shape.
46. Long Curtain Bang Blend
Solange Knowles’ wavy shag showcases how long curtain bangs can seamlessly integrate with shoulder-length hair. This style is ideal for those transitioning from shorter bangs to longer lengths, offering a fresh and modern spin on the classic shag.
Care Tip: Keep your bangs hydrated with a leave-in conditioner to prevent frizz and maintain smoothness.
47. Sparse Bangs
Zooey Deschanel’s wispy bangs and loosely wavy shag prove that bangs don’t have to be perfect to look stunning. Her grown-out, sparser bangs add a carefree element to the overall style, making it both relatable and aspirational.
Styling Trick: Embrace imperfections by scrunching your hair with a texturizing spray for a laid-back, effortless vibe.
48. Heavy Curtain Bangs
Jameela Jamil’s voluminous shag with heavy curtain bangs is a bold and glamorous take on the trend. Teasing the roots adds height and drama, while the center-parted bangs create a chic, curtain-like effect.
Volume Boost: Backcomb the crown area lightly to add lift, and use a volumizing spray to maintain the height throughout the day.
49. Bouncy and Retro
Heidi Klum’s half-up shag with bouncy volume is a nod to retro-inspired glamour. The face-framing layers and full bangs add a youthful touch, while the loose, bouncy waves keep the look fresh and modern.
Finishing Touch: Curl only the ends of your hair for a subtle wave, and secure the top section with a claw clip for a half-up, half-down style.
50. Soft Shag
Olga Kurylenko’s soft shag with loose curls and curtain bangs strikes the perfect balance between glam and grit. The center part enhances the flow of her waves, while a sea salt spray can add a tousled, beachy texture for a more edgy feel.
Product Suggestion: Try Herbivore Botanicals Coconut Sea Mist Texturizing Salt Spray for a matte, undone finish that still looks polished.
With so many variations of the long shag, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re aiming for a retro-inspired look or a modern twist, these styles are sure to inspire your next salon visit!
